Frances (Smith) Kennedy

Frances Smith Kennedy peacefully departed this life on February 21, 2026, at her home in Pink Hill, surrounded by her loving family. She was born on July 16, 1940.

She was preceded in death by her devoted husband of 58 years, Percy Kennedy; her parents, James Barnett and Bessie Smith; her brother, Alton Smith; and her sister, Helen Rich.

She leaves to cherish her memory her children: Melody Merritt of Fuquay-Varina, Doug Kennedy and wife Karen of Pink Hill, and Betsy Mohrfeld and husband John of Pink Hill. She was a proud and loving grandmother to Brittany Arnett and husband Ryan, Megan Merritt, Rhiley Marshburn and husband Brandon, Molly Maultsby and husband Evan, and Kaelyn and Makensie Mohrfeld. She was also blessed with great-grandchildren Macy, Julianne, Lexi, and Meredith Arnett, Kennedy Marshburn, and Baby Boy Marshburn. She is also survived by her brother, Ralph Kenneth Smith.

She found her greatest joy in spending time with her family and her church family at Sandy Plain OFWB. Her love, kindness, and faith touched the lives of all who knew her, and her legacy of devotion to family and community will live on in the hearts of those she leaves behind.

Funeral services will be held at Pink Hill Funeral Home on Monday, February 23, 2026, at 6:00 p.m., with visitation to follow. Graveside services will be held at Oak Ridge Memorial Park on Tuesday, February 24, 2026, at 11:00 a.m.

To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Frances (Smith) Kennedy, please visit our floral store.